Portable water bottle having a uv light sterilization module

ABSTRACT

A portable water bottle includes a water bottle body having water stored therein; and a sterilizing module for irradiating the inside of the water bottle body with sterilizing ultraviolet rays. The sterilizing module further includes a housing having an ultraviolet outlet through which the sterilizing ultraviolet rays pass; a light source module for emitting the sterilizing ultraviolet rays; and a power storage member for supplying power to the light source module.

CROSS-REFERENCE OF RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/830,756, filed on Mar. 26, 2020, which is a continuation of PCTApplication No. PCT/KR2018/010768, filed on Sep. 13, 2018, which claimspriority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 of Korean Patent Application No.10-2017-0124295, filed on Sep. 26, 2017. The disclosure of the PCTApplication No. PCT/KR2018/010768 and Korean Patent Application No.10-2017-0124295 are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a portable water bottleand, more particularly, to a portable water bottle having a UV lightsterilization module.

BACKGROUND

Ultraviolet (UV) light exhibit different properties depending onwavelength and a sterilization apparatus using such properties of UVlight is available. The sterilization apparatus using UV light generallyemploys a mercury (Hg) lamp. The sterilization apparatus performssterilization using ozone (O₃) generated by wavelengths emitted from themercury lamp. However, the mercury (Hg) lamp contains mercury, therebycausing environmental pollution when used for a long period of time.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a portable water bottlethat can be conveniently carried by a user and allows sterilization ofwater therein.

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a portable water bottlethat can prevent a user from being exposed to sterilization UV light. Inaccordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, a portablewater bottle includes a bottle body storing water therein and asterilizing module emitting sterilization UV light into the bottle body.The sterilizing module includes a housing having a UV outlet throughwhich the sterilization UV light passes; a light source module emittingthe sterilization UV light; and a power storage member supplyingelectric power to the light source module.

According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the portable waterbottle is manufactured by coupling a wireless sterilizing module and abottle body and can be conveniently carried by a user.

According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the portable waterbottle can control operation of a sterilization light source emittingsterilization UV light using a sensor, thereby preventing a user frombeing exposed to the sterilization UV light.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 to FIG. 6 are views of a portable water bottle according to afirst embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the assembled portable water bottleaccording to the first embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the portable water bottleaccording to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a sectional view of a sterilizing module of the portable waterbottle according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a sectional view of the portable water bottle according to thefirst embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 are different cross-sectional views of examples of thesterilization light source.

FIG. 7 is a sectional view of another embodiment of an interior sealingmember of a sterilizing module according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a portable water bottle according to asecond embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a portable water bottle according to athird embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 is a schematic block diagram of a sterilizing module accordingto a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a schematic block diagram of a sterilizing module accordingto a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a schematic block diagram of a sterilizing module accordingto a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 is a schematic block diagram of a sterilizing module accordingto a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described indetail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The followingembodiments are provided by way of example so as to fully convey thespirit of the present disclosure to those skilled in the artAccordingly, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodimentsdisclosed herein and can also be implemented in different forms. In thedrawings, widths, lengths, thicknesses, and the like of elements orcomponents can be exaggerated for clarity and descriptive purposes.Throughout the specification, like reference numerals denote likeelements having the same or similar functions.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a portable waterbottle includes a bottle body storing water therein and a sterilizingmodule emitting sterilization UV light into the bottle body. Thesterilizing module includes a housing having a UV outlet through whichthe sterilization UV light passes; a light source module emitting thesterilization UV light; and a power storage member supplying electricpower to the light source module.

In some embodiments, the light source module may include a substrate anda sterilization light source disposed on an upper surface of thesubstrate and emitting sterilization UV light. The sterilizing modulemay be disposed at an upper portion or a lower portion of the bottlebody. The portable water bottle may further include a transparent windowdisposed between the UV outlet and the light source module to divide aninterior of the housing from an exterior of the housing.

In other embodiments, the portable water bottle may further include atransparent window seat formed along a circumference of the UV outlet onan upper surface of the interior of the housing and receiving thetransparent window seated thereon. The portable water bottle may furtherinclude an interior sealing member disposed on the transparent windowseat and sealing a gap between the UV outlet and the transparent window.

In some embodiments, a side surface of the transparent window may beinserted into an inner surface of the interior sealing member to securethe transparent window to the interior sealing member. The interiorsealing member may include a first interior sealing member disposedbetween the upper surface of the housing and the transparent window; anda second interior sealing member disposed between the transparent windowand the light source module. The interior sealing member may be formedof a silicone material.

In some embodiments, the bottle body may further include a body couplingportion coupled to at least a portion of the sterilizing module. Thebody coupling portion may be formed on an inner surface of the bottlebody. Alternatively, or additionally, the bottle body may furtherinclude a breakaway prevention portion formed at an upper portion of thebody coupling portion and preventing the sterilizing module from beinginserted into the bottle body by a predetermined depth or more.

In some embodiments, the breakaway prevention portion may be formed of amaterial allowing transmission of the sterilization UV lighttherethrough. The breakaway prevention portion may have a through-holeformed therein. The body coupling portion may include threads formed onthe inner surface of the bottle body.

The sterilizing module may further include a module coupling portioncomposed of threads formed on an outer surface of a portion of thehousing inserted into the body coupling portion to couple the modulecoupling portion to the body coupling portion.

In some embodiments, the portable water bottle may further include anexterior sealing member disposed between the breakaway preventionportion and the sterilizing module and sealing a gap between thebreakaway prevention portion and the sterilizing module. The exteriorsealing member may be formed of a silicone material. The portable waterbottle may further include a connection terminal formed on the housingand connecting the power storage member to an external power source.

In other embodiments, the sterilizing module may further include a timercontrolling a sterilization time. The sterilizing module may furtherinclude an input unit setting a sterilization time. The sterilizingmodule may further include an output unit outputting at least oneselected from among a sterilization start time, a sterilization stoptime, and a remaining sterilization time.

Alternatively, or additionally, the portable water bottle may furtherinclude a sensor sensing at least one selected from among water storedin the bottle body, user gesture, and operation of the bottle body orthe sterilizing module. Here, the sterilization light source may emitsterilization UV light or may stop emission of the sterilization UVlight depending on a sensing result of the sensor.

An inner wall of the bottle body may be formed of a material preventingtransmission of the sterilization UV light therethrough. Alternatively,the inner wall of the bottle body may include a material reflecting thesterilization UV light.

The power storage member may be capable of being charged with electricpower and may include at least one selected from among a first powerstorage member secured inside the sterilizing module and a second powerstorage member detachably secured to the sterilizing module.

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a portable water bottlethat can be conveniently carried by a user and can sterilize waterstored therein.

FIG. 1 to FIG. 6 are views of a portable water bottle according to afirst embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the assembled portable water bottleaccording to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 isan exploded perspective view of the portable water bottle according tothe first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a sectionalview of a sterilizing module of the portable water bottle according tothe first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a sectionalview of the portable water bottle according to the first embodiment ofthe present disclosure. FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 are different cross-sectionalviews of examples of the sterilization light source.

According to the first embodiment, the portable water bottle 100includes a bottle body 110 and a sterilizing module 120. In someembodiments, the bottle body 110 stores water. In other embodiments, thebottle body 110 stores other forms of liquid that have similarproperties of water. According to this embodiment, the bottle body 110has a structure open at a lower side thereof. The sterilizing module 120is coupled to an open portion of the bottle body 110 to define a spacein the bottle body 110 such that water can be stored in the space insidethe bottle body 110.

The bottle body 110 is formed therein with a breakaway preventionportion 111. The breakaway prevention portion 111 protrudes from aninner surface of the bottle body 110 in an inward direction. Thebreakaway prevention portion 111 is formed along the inner surface ofthe bottle body 110 to form a hollow space therein. The breakawayprevention portion 111 prevents the sterilizing module 120 from beingmoved out of a predetermined location when the sterilizing module 120 isinserted into the bottle body 110 and coupled to a body coupling portion112. When the sterilizing module 120 is coupled to the body couplingportion 112, an upper surface of the sterilizing module 120 contacts alower surface of the breakaway prevention portion 111. That is, thebreakaway prevention portion 111 prevents the sterilizing module 120from being detached from the bottle body 110 by restricting an insertiondepth of the sterilizing module 120 into the bottle body 110.

The breakaway prevention portion 111 is formed at a lower side thereofwith the body coupling portion 112. The body coupling portion 112 iscoupled to the sterilizing module 120. When the body coupling portion112 is coupled to the sterilizing module 120, which is in turn securedto the bottle body 110. For example, the body coupling portion 112 maybe threads formed on an inner wall of the bottle body 110. Various otherstructures or mechanism may be used for the body coupling portion 112.

Since the bottle body 110 stores water therein, the inner wall of thebottle body 110 is formed of a corrosion resistant material. Further,the inner wall of the bottle body 110 may be coated with a material notallowing transmission of sterilization UV light therethrough. Since thesterilization UV light cannot pass through the bottle body 110, thewater bottle can prevent the sterilization UV light from affecting thehealth conditions of a user carrying the portable water bottle 100.Alternatively, the inner wall of the bottle body 110 may be coated witha reflective material reflecting the sterilization UV light. Thesterilization UV light is reflected from the inner wall of the bottlebody 110 toward the water stored in the bottle body 110, therebyimproving efficiency in sterilization of water. In other embodiments,the bottle body 110 per se may be formed of the material not allowingtransmission of the sterilization UV light or the reflective materialreflecting the sterilization UV light.

Referring to FIG. 2, the sterilizing module 120 includes a housing 130,a transparent window 141, a light source module 150, and a power storagemember 142.

The housing 130 includes a first housing 131 and a second housing 132.According to this embodiment, the first housing 131 constitutes an uppersurface and a side surface of the housing 130, and the second housing132 constitutes a lower surface of the housing 130. The transparentwindow 141, the light source module 150 and the power storage member 142are disposed in a space defined by the first housing 131 and the secondhousing 132. The first housing 131 is formed with a first couplingportion 133 protruding downwards from an upper surface thereof and thesecond housing 132 is formed with a second coupling portion 134protruding upwards from a lower surface thereof. The first housing 131is coupled to the second housing 132 by inserting one end of the firstcoupling portion 133 into the second coupling portion 134. As shown inFIG. 3, a portion of the second housing 132 on which the second couplingportion 134 is formed and the second coupling portion 134 may be formedin a penetrated structure. Here, a screw may be inserted into apenetrated portion of the second housing 132 to be fastened to the firstcoupling portion 133 through the second coupling portion 134. Thisstructure can improve coupling force between the first housing 131 andthe second housing 132.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the first housing 131 is formed with a UVoutlet 135 having a penetrated structure. The UV outlet 135 is a paththrough which sterilization UV lit emitted from the light source module150 is discharged outside the sterilizing module 120. With the bottlebody 110 coupled to the sterilizing module 120, water stored in thebottle body 110 is irradiated with the sterilization UV light emittedthrough the UV outlet 135. The UV outlet 135 may have a diameterdetermined in consideration of a beam angle of the sterilization UVlight emitted from the light source module 150. In addition, theentirety or a portion of an inner surface of the first housing 131defining the UV outlet 135 may have a tapered structure. The taperedstructure can reduce loss of the sterilization UV light due to collisionwith the inner surface of the first housing 131 while the sterilizationUV light passes through the UV outlet 135.

In addition, the inner surface of the first housing 131 defining the UVoutlet 135 may be formed of a reflective material reflecting thesterilization UV light or may be coated with the reflective material.Upon collision with the inner surface of the first housing 131, thesterilization UV light can be reflected from the inner surface of thefirst housing 131 and pass through the UV outlet 135. Accordingly, thesterilization UV light may not be lost on the inner surface of the firsthousing 131 and is reflected toward the interior of the bottle body 110.Sterilization efficiency of the portable water bottle 100 may improve.

The housing 130 is formed on an outer surface thereof with a modulecoupling portion 136. The module coupling portion 136 is formed on anouter surface of an upper portion of the first housing 131 inserted intothe bottle body 110. For example, the module coupling portion 136 may becomposed of threads corresponding to the body coupling portion 112 ofthe bottle body 110. In other embodiments, various other structures thanthreads are available.

Accordingly, the module coupling portion 136 of the sterilizing module120 is inserted into the body coupling portion 112 of the bottle body110 and screwed thereto. In this way, the bottle body 110 is coupled tothe sterilizing module 120 such that water can be stored in the bottlebody 110.

Referring back to FIG. 2, an exterior sealing member 160 may be disposedbetween the breakaway prevention portion 111 of the bottle body 110 andthe sterilizing module 120. The exterior sealing member 160 seals a gapbetween the breakaway prevention portion 111 and the sterilizing module120 to prevent water stored in the bottle body 110 from leaking from theportable water bottle 100.

The exterior sealing member 160 is formed between the breakawayprevention portion 111 and the sterilizing module 120 to surround thecircumference of the inner surface of the breakaway prevention portion111 and the circumference of the UV outlet 135. The exterior sealingmember 160 is formed of an elastic material. For example, the exteriorsealing member 160 may be formed of a silicone material.

The sterilizing module 120 includes an exterior sealing member seat 137on which the exterior sealing member 160 is seated. The exterior sealingmember seat 137 is formed on an upper surface of the sterilizing module120 to surround the circumference of the UV outlet 135. In addition, theexterior sealing member seat 137 may have a smaller height than theupper surface of the sterilizing module 120 on which the UV outlet 135is formed. That is, the upper surface of the sterilizing module 120 mayhave a stepped structure in which the UV outlet 135 has a differentheight from the exterior sealing member seat 137. With the steppedstructure of the upper surface of the sterilizing module 120, theportable water bottle 100 can prevent the exterior sealing member 160from being detached from a predetermined location.

In addition, the stepped structure of the sterilizing module 120 allowsthe upper surface of the sterilizing module 120 having the UV outlet 135formed thereon to be placed inside the breakaway prevention portion 111or above the breakaway prevention portion 111. Accordingly, the distancebetween the sterilizing module 120 and the space storing water thereinis stored can be reduced, thereby improving sterilization efficiency ofthe portable water bottle 100.

Further, the breakaway prevention portion 111, the exterior sealingmember seat 137 and the exterior sealing member 160 are formed to havesufficient contact areas, thereby improving a waterproofing function ofthe portable water bottle 100.

The housing 130 is formed therein with a transparent window seat 138, asshown in FIG. 3. The transparent window seat 138 defines a space onwhich the transparent window 141 is seated. The transparent window seat138 protrudes downwards from the upper surface of the first housing 131while surrounding the periphery of the UV outlet 135. The transparentwindow seat 138 is provided with the transparent window 141 and aninterior sealing member 170.

The transparent window 141 is formed of a material allowing transmissionof the sterilization UV light therethrough. For example, the transparentwindow 112 (see FIG. 4) may be formed of at least one selected fromamong quartz, a poly(methyl methacrylate)(PMMA) resin, and afluorine-based polymer resin. With a side surface of the transparentwindow 141 inserted into an inner surface of the interior sealing member170, the transparent window 141 may be seated on the transparent windowseat 138.

The interior sealing member 170 is formed to surround the side surfaceof the transparent window 141. The interior sealing member 170 isprovided to waterproof the sterilizing module 120 and seals a gapbetween the transparent window 141 and the transparent window seat 138.The interior sealing member 170 is formed of an elastic material. Forexample, the interior sealing member 170 is formed of a siliconematerial.

In addition, a thickness of the interior sealing member 170 from anupper surface of the interior sealing member 170 to a lower surfacethereof may be the same as or slightly greater than a height of thetransparent window seat 138 protruding from the upper surface of thefirst housing 131.

The housing 130 is formed therein with a light source module fasteningportion 139 as shown in FIG. 3. The light source module fasteningportion 139 serves to hold the sterilizing module 120 inside the housing130. The light source module fastening portion 139 is formed to protrudedownwards from the upper surface of the first housing 131. The lightsource module 150 emits sterilization UV light capable of sterilizingwater. The light source module 150 includes a substrate 151 and asterilization light source 152, as shown in FIG. 2.

The substrate 141 is electrically connected to the sterilization lightsource 142 to supply electric power to the sterilization light source142. For example, the substrate 141 may be a printed circuit board(PCB), a metal substrate, a ceramic substrate, or the like. That is, thesubstrate 141 may be selected from any kind of substrate that can beelectrically connected to the sterilization light source 142.

The sterilization light source 152 is mounted on an upper surface of thesubstrate 141, as shown in FIG. 3. The sterilization light source 152emits sterilization UV light. For example, the sterilization lightsource 152 is a light emitting diode chip that emits sterilization UVlight The sterilization UV light emitted from the sterilization lightsource 152 may be UV light in any wavelength band capable of sterilizingwater.

For example, the sterilization light source 142 may be alight emittingdiode having a structure shown in FIG. 5.

Referring to FIG. 5, compound semiconductor layers including a firstconductivity type semiconductor layer 14, an active layer 15, and asecond conductivity type semiconductor layer 16 are formed on aconductive substrate 11. Here, the first conductivity type semiconductorlayer 14 is an N-type semiconductor layer and the second conductivitytype semiconductor layer 16 is a P-type semiconductor layer. Theconductive substrate 11 may be a substrate formed of Si, GaAs, GaP,AlGaINP, Ge, SiSe, GaN, AlInGaN or InGaN, or a substrate formed of Al,Zn, Ag, W, Ti, Ni, Au, Mo, Pt, Pd, Cu, Cr, Fe, or alloys thereof. Thecompound semiconductor layers are III-N-based compound semiconductorlayers.

In some embodiments, the first conductivity type semiconductor layer 14may be subjected to a roughening process. Accordingly, light generatedfrom the active layer can be reflected from an interface of the firstconductivity type semiconductor layer 14 subjected to the rougheningprocess.

A metal reflective layer 13 is interposed between the compoundsemiconductor layers and the conductive substrate 11. The metalreflective layer 13 is formed of a material having high reflectivity,for example, silver (Ag) or aluminum (Al).

On the other hand, a bonding layer 12 may be interposed between themetal reflective layer 13 and the conductive substrate 11 to prevent theconductive substrate 11 from being separated from the metal reflectivelayer 13 by enhancing bonding force between the conductive substrate 11and the metal reflective layer 13.

Although not shown in the drawings, an anti-diffusion layer may beinterposed between the bonding layer 12 and the metal reflective layer13. The anti-diffusion layer can maintain reflectivity of the metalreflective layer 13 by preventing metal elements from diffusing from thebonding layer 12 or the conductive substrate 11 to the metal reflectivelayer 13.

An electrode pad 17 is disposed on an upper surface of the compoundsemiconductor layers to be opposite to the conductive substrate 11. Withthis structure, electric current can be supplied to the semiconductorlayers through the conductive substrate 11 and the electrode pad 17 toemit light.

In a typical light emitting diode, since a P-type semiconductor layerhaving a small thickness is formed on the conductive substrate, currentleakage occurs at a bonding interface between the conductive substrateand the P-type semiconductor layer, thereby causing deterioration inluminous efficacy. However, in the light emitting diode shown in FIG. 6,the first conductivity type semiconductor layer 14, that is, the N-typesemiconductor layer, is formed on the conductive substrate 11, therebysolving the problems of the typical light emitting diode suffering fromcurrent leakage and deterioration in luminous efficacy.

Alternatively, the sterilization light source 152 may be a lightemitting diode having a structure shown in FIG. 6.

Referring to FIG. 6, the light emitting diode may include a firstconductivity type semiconductor layer 22, a mesa M including an activelayer 23 and a second conductivity type semiconductor layer 24, a firstinsulating layer 28, a first electrode 29, and a second insulating layer30, and may further include a growth substrate 21 and a second electrode27. The growth substrate 21 may be selected from any substrate enablinggrowth of the first conductivity type semiconductor layer 22, the activelayer 23, and the second conductivity type semiconductor layer 24thereon. For example, the growth substrate 21 may be a sapphiresubstrate, a silicon carbide substrate, a gallium nitride substrate, analuminum nitride substrate, a silicon substrate, or the like. A sidesurface of the growth substrate 21 may include an inclined surface,thereby improving extraction of light generated in the active layer 23.

The second conductivity type semiconductor layer 24 may be disposed onthe first conductivity type semiconductor layer 22 and the active layer23 may be disposed between the first conductivity type semiconductorlayer 22 and the second conductivity type semiconductor layer 24.

The first conductivity type semiconductor layer 22 may include n-typedopants and the second conductivity type semiconductor layer 24 mayinclude p-type dopants, or vice versa. The active layer 23 may include amulti-quantum well (MQW) structure.

The light emitting diode may include at least one mesa M which includesthe active layer 23 and the second conductivity type semiconductor layer24. In some embodiments, a side surface of the mesa M may be an inclinedsurface, which improves luminous efficacy of light generated in theactive layer 23.

The first conductivity type semiconductor layer 22 may include a firstcontact region R1 and a second contact region R2 exposed through themesa M. The first electrode 29 may be electrically connected to thefirst conductivity type semiconductor layer 22 in the first contactregion R1 and the second contact region R2. The first contact region R1may be disposed around the mesa M along an outer circumference of thefirst conductivity type semiconductor layer 22. In addition, the secondcontact region R2 may be at least partially surrounded by the mesa M.With this structure, electric current can flow along the outercircumference of the light emitting diode at the center thereof, therebyreducing forward voltage through effective distribution of the electriccurrent.

The second electrode 27 may be disposed on the second conductivity typesemiconductor layer 24 and may be electrically connected thereto. Thesecond electrode 27 may include a reflective metal layer 25 formed onthe second conductivity type semiconductor layer 24 and a barrier metallayer 26 covering upper and side surfaces of the reflective metal layer26.

The first insulating layer 28 may be disposed between the firstelectrode 29 and the mesa M. The first electrode 29 may be insulatedfrom the mesa M and the first electrode 29 may be insulated from thesecond electrode 27 through the first insulating layer 28. The firstinsulating layer 28 may partially expose the first contact region R1 andthe second contact region R2. The first insulating layer 28 may have anopening that exposes the second electrode 27. The second electrode 27may be electrically connected to pads or bumps (not shown) through theopening.

The second insulating layer 30 may adjoin a portion of the first contactregion R1. Specifically, the second insulating layer 30 may cover thefirst contact region R1 exposed through the first electrode 29. Inaddition, the second insulating layer 30 may cover at least part of thefirst electrode 29.

The structure of the sterilization light source 152 has been describedwith reference to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6. However, it should be understoodthat the structure of the sterilization light source 152 is not limitedto the structure shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6. The sterilization lightsource 152 may be any kind of light emitting diode having any structureso long as the sterilization light source 152 can emit sterilization UVlight.

The substrate 151 is formed with fastening holes 153. The fasteningholes 153 are formed at locations corresponding to the light sourcemodule fastening portion 139 of the housing 130 when the light sourcemodule 150 is disposed inside the housing 130. For example, thesterilizing module 120 may be secured to the interior of the housing 130by screw fastening. That is, one end of a screw is fastened to the lightsource module fastening portion 139 through each of the fastening holes153 of the substrate 151.

When the sterilization light source 152 is secured to the housing 130,the upper surface of the substrate 151 may press the interior sealingmember 170. The interior sealing member 170 may more reliably seal thegap between the upper surface of the first housing 131 and thetransparent window 141 while being pressed on the upper surface of thefirst housing 131 by the substrate 151.

In this way, the light source module 150 is secured to the housing 130while pressing the interior sealing member 170 on which the transparentwindow 141 is mounted, thereby waterproofing the UV outlet 135.

The power storage member 142 supplies electric energy to interiorcomponents of the sterilizing module 120 for operation of thesterilizing module 120. That is, the power storage member 142 supplieselectric energy to the light source module 150. The power storage member142 may accumulate chemical energy obtained through conversion of theelectric energy supplied from an external power source. In addition, thepower storage member 142 may convert the accumulated chemical energyinto electric energy to supply the electric energy to other components.The power storage member 142 may be a secondary battery capable ofrepeating such charge and discharge operations. In this way, since thepower storage member 142 can repeat charge and discharge, the portablewater bottle 100 can sterilize water even without being connected to anexternal power source. That is, the power storage member 142 enablesconvenient carrying of the portable water bottle 100. For example, thepower storage member 142 may be selected from any secondary battery,such as a NiCd battery, a lithium ion battery, a polymer battery, anickel hydrogen battery, and the like.

Alternatively, the power storage member 142 may be a primary batterypreviously charged and not allowing recharging. When the power storagemember 142 is the primary battery, the power storage member 142 isreplaced by a new power storage member 142 after being discharged. Forexample, the power storage member 142 may be any primary battery, suchas a typical dry battery.

When the power storage member 142 is the primary battery, the firsthousing 131 may be coupled to the second housing 132 by other couplingmethods allowing easy separation and coupling instead of screw coupling.For example, the first housing 131 and the second housing 132 may besecured in a coupled state only by inserting the second coupling portion134 of the second housing 132 into the first coupling portion 133 of thefirst housing 131. Alternatively, the first housing 131 or the secondhousing 132 may be formed with an inlet through which the power storagemember 142 can be replaced.

In the drawings, the sterilizing module 120 is illustrated as includingone power storage member 142. Alternatively, the sterilizing module 120may include a plurality of power storage members 142. The sterilizingmodule 120 may include a first power storage member 142′ and a secondpower storage member 142″. Here, the first power storage member 142′ maybe a secondary battery and the second power storage member 142″ may be aprimary battery. The sterilizing module 120 may receive electric powersupplied from one of the first power storage member 142′ and the secondpower storage member 142″ depending on circumstances. For example, whenthe first power storage member 142′ supplying electric power to thesterilizing module 120 is discharged, the sterilizing module 120 mayreceive electric power supplied from the second power storage member142″.

The housing 130 of the sterilizing module 120 is formed with aconnection terminal 143. The connection terminal 143 is an input unitthrough which electric current supplied from an external power source(not shown) is supplied to the power storage member 142. The connectionterminal 143 may be directly connected to the power storage member 142or may be connected thereto through the substrate 151 of the lightsource module 150 or through a separate substrate (not shown). Forexample, the connection terminal 143 may be selected from any terminalsfor power charge, such as a universal serial bus (USB) terminal, a cigarjack, and the like.

Further, the housing 130 of the sterilizing module 120 is formed with apower switch 144. The power switch 144 controls electric power suppliedfrom the power storage member 142 to the light source module 150 suchthat the sterilizing module 120 emits sterilization UV light or stopsemission of the sterilization UV light. The power switch 144 may send asignal to the substrate 151 of the light source module 150 to controlpower supply of the light source module 150.

The power switch 144 may be operated by any methods capable ofcontrolling power connection between the power storage member 142 andthe light source module 150. For example, the power switch 144 may be aswitch to which at least one mechanism of a push mechanism, a togglemechanism, a slide mechanism and a touch mechanism is applied.

Detailed description of a lid (not shown) that covers an upper portionof the portable water bottle 100 according to this embodiment isomitted. The presence and structure of the lid can be modified invarious ways according to selection of those skilled in the art.

In the following description, description of the same components asthose described above will be omitted. For description of the omittedcomponents, the above description can be referred.

FIG. 7 is a sectional view of another embodiment of the interior sealingmember of the sterilizing module according to the present disclosure.The interior sealing member 170 may include a first interior sealingmember 171 and a second interior sealing member 172. The first interiorsealing member 171 and the second interior sealing member 172 aredisposed on the transparent window seat 138. The first interior sealingmember 171 and the second interior sealing member 172 are formed of anelastic material.

The first interior sealing member 171 is disposed between an uppersurface of the housing 130 and the transparent window 141. Further, thesecond interior sealing member 172 is disposed between the transparentwindow 141 and the substrate 151 of the light source module 150.

When the light source module 150 is secured to the housing 130, thesubstrate 151 presses the second interior sealing member 172 in anupward direction. That is, the second interior sealing member 172, thetransparent window 141 and the first interior sealing member 171 arepressed on the upper surface of the housing 130 to be brought into closecontact with one another by the substrate 151. Since the first interiorsealing member 171 and the second interior sealing member 172 are formedof an elastic material, the first interior sealing member 171 and thesecond interior sealing member 172 seal the gap between the UV outlet135 and the transparent window 141, thereby waterproofing thesterilizing module 120.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a portable water bottle according to asecond embodiment of the present disclosure. The following descriptionwill focus on different features of the portable water bottle 200according to the second embodiment from the portable water bottle 100according to the first embodiment. Referring to FIG. 8, the portablewater bottle 200 according to the second embodiment includes a bottlebody 210 and a sterilizing module 220.

Unlike the portable water bottle 100 of the first embodiment, the bottlebody 210 according to this embodiment has a closed lower surface. Thatis, a breakaway prevention portion 211 is formed to seal the bottle body210 instead of having a penetrated structure. Accordingly, water can bestored in the bottle body 210 even in a state wherein the bottle body210 is not coupled to the sterilizing module 220.

The breakaway prevention portion 211 is formed at a lower side thereofwith a body coupling portion 212. An upper portion of the sterilizingmodule 220 is inserted into the body coupling portion 212. That is, theupper portion of the sterilizing module 220 is inserted into a spacebetween inner surfaces of the bottle body 210 that constitutes the bodycoupling portion 212.

The breakaway prevention portion 211 disposed to face a UV outlet 235 ofthe sterilizing module 220 is formed of a material allowing transmissionof UV light therethrough. For example, the breakaway prevention portion211 may be formed of quartz. Alternatively, not only the breakawayprevention portion 211 but also the entirety of the lower surface of thebottle body 210 may be formed of the material allowing transmission ofUV light therethrough.

The sterilizing module 220 has a stepped upper surface. FIG. 8 shows thesterilizing module 220 partially inserted into the body coupling portion212. Alternatively, the sterilizing module 220 may be formed in asmaller size than the body coupling portion 212 such that the entiretyof the sterilizing module 220 can be inserted into the body couplingportion 212. With the structure where the sterilizing module 220 has asmaller size than the body coupling portion 212, the sterilizing module220 may have a flat upper surface instead of the stepped upper surface.

According to this embodiment, since the portable water bottle 200 canstore water only with the bottle body 210, a user can carry the bottlebody 210 alone. As such, since the bottle body 210 excluding thesterilizing module 220 can be carried alone by a user, it is possible tocarry the portable water bottle 200 with reduced weight.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a portable water bottle according to athird embodiment of the present disclosure. The following descriptionwill focus on different features of the portable water bottle 300according to the third embodiment from the portable water bottles 100,200 according to the first and second embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 9, the portable water bottle 300 according to thethird embodiment includes a bottle body 310 and a sterilizing module320.

The bottle body 310 has a closed lower surface and is formed to have aflat structure. Even without the sterilizing module 320, the bottle body310 can store water therein. In addition, since the bottle body 310 hasa flat lower surface, it is possible to prevent the bottle body 310 fromfalling down due to slight impact or vibration when the bottle body 310is placed on a floor. The entirety of the lower surface of the bottlebody 310 or a portion of the bottle body 310 facing a UV outlet 335 ofthe sterilizing module 320 may be formed of a material allowingtransmission of sterilization UV light therethrough.

The sterilizing module 320 may have a flat upper surface. Accordingly, aUV outlet 335 of the sterilizing module 320 may be formed in a largesize, as needed. Since the UV outlet 335 has a large size, a greaternumber of sterilization light sources 352 can be disposed on thesubstrate 351. Even with a broad irradiation range through emission ofsterilization UV light from many sterilization light sources 352, the UVoutlet 335 is formed in a large size, thereby reducing loss of thesterilization UV light through collision with the interior of thesterilizing module 320. That is, the interior of the bottle body 310 canbe sufficiently irradiated with the sterilization UV light emitted in abroad range from many sterilization light sources 352. Accordingly, theportable water bottle 300 can sterilize water stored therein with alarge magnitude of the sterilization UV light, thereby improvingsterilization efficiency through reduction in sterilization time.

Furthermore, the portable water bottle 300 according to this embodimentcan store water only with the bottle body 310. As such, since the bottlebody 310 excluding the sterilizing module 320 can be carried alone by auser, it is possible to carry the portable water bottle 300 with reducedweight.

FIG. 10 is a schematic block diagram of the sterilizing module accordingto a first embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 10, asterilizing module 400 includes a power switch 410, a substrate 420, apower storage member 430, and a sterilization light source 440.

In some embodiments, the power switch 410 generates a start signal and astop signal. The start signal and the stop signal are generated by thepower switch 410 in response to input signals from the outside. Forexample, when a user touches the power switch 410, the power switch 410generates the start signal. Then, when the user touches the power switch410 again, the power switch 410 generates the stop signal. A method ofsending the signals to the power switch 410 corresponding to the startsignal and the stop signal may be changed depending on the kind of powerswitch 410.

Upon reception of the start signal from the power switch 410, thesubstrate 420 supplies electric power stored in the power storage member430 to the sterilization light source 440. Upon reception of the stopsignal from the power switch 410, the substrate 420 stops power supplyto the sterilization light source 440.

Upon reception of electric power through the substrate 420, thesterilization light source 440 emits sterilization UV light. Inaddition, the sterilization light source 440 stops emission of thesterilization UV light when power supply through the substrate 420 isstopped. The sterilizing module 400 according to the first embodimentcan be conveniently controlled through manipulation of the power switch410.

FIG. 11 is a schematic block diagram of a sterilizing module accordingto a second embodiment of the present disclosure. A sterilizing module500 according to the second embodiment includes a power switch 510, atimer 550, a substrate 520, a power storage member 530, and asterilization light source 540.

The power switch 510 generates a start signal and a stop signal inresponse to input signals from the outside. The power switch 510 maysend the start signal to the timer 550. Upon reception of the startsignal, the timer 550 may send a sterilization start signal to thesubstrate 520.

Upon reception of the sterilization start signal, the substrate 520supplies electric power from a power storage member 530 to thesterilization light source 540. Further, the timer 550 sends asterilization stop signal to the substrate 520 after a presetsterilization time. Upon reception of the sterilization stop signal, thesubstrate 520 stops power supply of the sterilization light source 540.The power switch 510 may send the stop signal to at least one selectedfrom among the timer 550 and the substrate 520.

Upon reception of the stop signal, the timer 550 may send thesterilization stop signal to the substrate 520 even when the presetsterilization time has not elapsed. Upon reception of the stop signal,the substrate 520 stops power supply of the sterilization light source540 even when the substrate 520 does not receive the sterilization stopsignal from the timer 550.

The sterilizing module 500 according to the second embodiment emitssterilization UV light only for a period of sterilization preset by thetimer 550. Since the sterilizing module 500 automatically stopssterilization operation after the preset sterilization time, it ispossible to reduce power consumption.

FIG. 12 is a schematic block diagram of the sterilizing module accordingto the third embodiment of the present disclosure. A sterilizing module600 according to the third embodiment includes a power switch 610, aninput unit 660, an output unit 670, a timer 650, a substrate 620, apower storage member 630, and a sterilization light source 640.

The power switch 610 generates a start signal and a stop signal inresponse to input signals from the outside. The power switch 610 sendsthe start signal to the input unit 660. The input unit 660 is activatedin response to the start signal. The input unit 660 is a componentthrough which a user inputs a signal. For example, the input unit 660may be selected from any components enabling input of commands, such asa touch pad, a button, a keypad, and the like.

According to this embodiment, a sterilization time may be set throughthe input unit 660. The input unit 660 sends data regarding the inputsterilization time to the timer 650. The timer 650 sends thesterilization start signal or the sterilization stop signal to thesubstrate 620 based on the data regarding the sterilization time. Thesubstrate 620 supplies electric power of the power storage member 630 tothe sterilization light source 640 or stops power supply thereto inresponse to the sterilization start signal or the sterilization stopsignal sent from the timer 650.

The output unit 670 outputs the data regarding the sterilization timeinput to the input unit 660 such that a user can monitor the data. Inaddition, the output unit 670 may output sterilization data, such as asterilization start time, a sterilization stop time, and a remainingsterilization time, received from the timer 650. For example, the outputunit 670 may be a liquid crystal display device. The output unit 670 maybe selected from any device capable of visibly or audibly displayingdata in the form of text or sound.

The sterilizing module 600 according to the third embodiment allows auser to directly set the sterilization time. Accordingly, thesterilizing module 600 emits sterilization UV light to sterilize waterfor a period of time set by a user.

FIG. 13 is a schematic block diagram of the sterilizing module accordingto a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. A sterilizing module700 according to the fourth embodiment includes a power switch 710, asensor 750, a substrate 720, a power storage member 730, and asterilization light source 740. The power switch 710 generates a startsignal and a stop signal in response to input signals from the outside.The power switch 710 may send the start signal to the sensor 750.

Upon reception of the start signal, the sensor 750 generates asterilization start signal or a sterilization stop signal according tothe kind of sensor. Then, the sensor 750 sends the sterilization startsignal or the sterilization stop signal to the substrate 720. Forexample, the sensor 750 may be a humidity sensor. The sensor 750 maysense water stored in the portable water bottle. That is, high humidityof the portable water bottle indicates water stored therein and lowhumidity of the portable water bottle indicates that the portable waterbottle is in an empty state. Upon detection of a higher humidity than apreset humidity, the sensor 750 generates and sends the sterilizationstart signal to the substrate 720. Further, upon detection of a lowerhumidity than the preset humidity, the sensor 750 generates and sendsthe sterilization stop signal to the substrate 720. Thus, the portablewater bottle may send the sterilization UV light into the portable waterbottle only when it is determined based on a sensing result of thehumidity sensor that the portable water bottle stores water.

Alternatively, the sensor 750 may be a gyro sensor. The sensor 750detects an inclination of the portable water bottle to generate thesterilization start signal or the sterilization stop signal.

The sensor 750 generates and sends the sterilization start signal to thesubstrate 720 when the sterilizing module 700 or the portable waterbottle is tilted at an angle less than or equal to a predeterminedinclination. In addition, the sensor 750 generates and sends thesterilization stop signal when the sterilizing module 700 or theportable water bottle is tilted at an angle greater than or equal to apredetermined inclination. That is, in order to allow a user to drinkwater stored in the portable water bottle, the portable water bottle istilted at a predetermined angle or more. Accordingly, the portable waterbottle can prevent a user from being exposed to the sterilization UVlight by detecting the inclination of the portable water bottle usingthe gyro sensor when the user drinks water.

Alternatively, the sensor 750 may be a distance sensor. The sensor 750detects a distance between the portable water bottle and the body of auser. The sensor 750 may generate the sterilization start signal onlywhen the distance between the portable water bottle and the body of auser is a predetermined distance or longer. In addition, the sensor 750may generate the sterilization stop signal only when the distancebetween the portable water bottle and the body of a user is apredetermined distance or less. Accordingly, the portable water bottlecan prevent a user from being exposed to the sterilization UV light byemitting the sterilization UV light to water only when it is determinedusing the distance sensor that the user is away from the portable waterbottle.

Alternatively, the sensor 750 may be a gesture sensor or a motionsensor. The sensor 750 detects a user gesture or motion of the portablewater bottle. The sensor 750 generates the sterilization start signal orthe sterilization stop signal corresponding to the user gesture or themotion of the portable water bottle detected thereby. Accordingly, theportable water bottle can start or stop sterilization of water onlythrough a simple operation based on sensing results of the gesturesensor or the motion sensor even when a user does not input a commandfor sterilization through the input unit.

Alternatively, the sensor 750 may be an illuminance sensor. The sensor750 detects the interior illuminance of the portable water bottle togenerate the sterilization start signal or the sterilization stopsignal. The sensor 750 generates the sterilization start signal when thelid of the portable water bottle is closed, and generates thesterilization stop signal when the lid of the portable water bottle isopen. Accordingly, since the portable water bottle emits sterilizationUV light only when it is determined based on a sensing result of theilluminance sensor that the lid of the portable water bottle is closed,the portable water bottle can prevent a user from being exposed to thesterilization UV light.

Alternatively, or additionally, the sterilizing module 700 may includeat least one selected from the group consisting of the aforementionedsensors and a combination thereof.

The sterilizing module 700 or the portable water bottle may controlsterilization start and sterilization stop of the sterilizing module 700using various other sensors as well as the aforementioned sensors.

Upon reception of the sterilization start signal from the sensor 750,the substrate 720 supplies electric power of the power storage member730 to the sterilization light source 740. In addition, upon receptionof the sterilization stop signal from the sensor 750, the substrate 720stops power supply from the sterilization light source 740.

According to the fourth embodiment, the sterilizing module 700automatically performs operation for sterilization start orsterilization stop based on sensing results of the sensor 750 even whena user does not input a separate command for sterilization.

Although not described in the fourth embodiment, the sterilizing module700 may further include an input unit, an output unit, a timer, and thelike.

For example, a preset sterilization time is input through the input unitand the sterilizing module 700 can generate the sterilization startsignal or the sterilization operation signal based on sensing results ofthe sensor 750 detecting the portable water bottle, a user and waterstored in the portable water bottle for the preset sterilization time.

Although some embodiments have been described herein with reference tothe accompanying drawings, it should be understood that theseembodiments are provided for illustration only and are not to beconstrued in any way as limiting the present disclosure and the scope ofthe present disclosure should be defined by the appended claims andequivalents thereto.

We claim:
 1. A portable water bottle, comprising: a body having a spacefor storing water; a sterilizing module coupled to the body andconfigured to emit a sterilization light into the body; a breakawayprevention portion formed at upper portion of the body and configured torestrict an insertion depth of the sterilizing module into the body; anda sensor communicatively coupled to the sterilizing module and operableto sense at least one of a user gesture, an occurrence of apredetermined motion of the body or the sterilizing module, or acombination of the user gesture and the occurrence of the predeterminedmotion of the body or the sterilizing module, wherein the sterilizingmodule is further configured to start and stop emitting of thesterilization light based on a sensing result of the sensor, andcomprises: a first substrate; a light emitting structure disposed on thefirst substrate and configured to emit the sterilization light, thelight emitting structure including a second substrate on which a firstconductivity type semiconductor layer, an active layer, and a secondconductivity type semiconductor layer are disposed; an outlet having apath through which the sterilization light emitted from the lightemitting structure is discharged outside the sterilizing module; and awindow member disposed on the first substrate and configured to protectthe light emitting structure from an exterior of the sterilizing module,wherein the second substrate includes an inclined portion and configuredto increase an extraction of the sterilization light generated in theactive layer.
 2. The portable water bottle of claim 1, wherein an innerwall of the body includes a material preventing transmission of thesterilization light therethrough.
 3. The portable water bottle of claim1, wherein an inner wall of the body includes a corrosion resistantmaterial.
 4. The portable water bottle of claim 1, wherein thesterilizing module further comprises a power storage member supplyingelectric power to the light emitting structure.
 5. The portable waterbottle of claim 1, wherein the sterilizing module further comprises atimer controlling a sterilization time.
 6. The portable water bottle ofclaim 1, wherein the sterilizing module further comprises an input unitsetting a sterilization time.
 7. The portable water bottle of claim 1,wherein the outlet is placed inside the breakaway prevention portion orabove the breakaway prevention portion such that a distance between thesterilizing module and a space storing water is reduced.
 8. The portablewater bottle of claim 1, wherein the window member includes afluorine-based polymer.
 9. The portable water bottle of claim 1, whereinat least a region of the active layer and the second conductivity typesemiconductor layer has an inclined region to improve extraction of thesterilization light generated in the active layer.
 10. A sterilizationmodule, comprising: a housing having an outlet through whichsterilization light passes; a first substrate disposed in the housing; alight emitting structure disposed on the first substrate to emit thesterilization light and including a second substrate, a firstconductivity type semiconductor layer disposed on the second substrate,an active layer disposed on the first conductivity type semiconductorlayer; and a second conductivity type semiconductor layer disposed onthe active layer; a power storage member configured to supply electricpower to the light emitting structure; a window member disposed on thefirst substrate and configured to protect the light emitting structurefrom an exterior of the sterilizing module; and a sensor communicativelycoupled to the sterilizing module and operable to sense at least one ofa user gesture, an occurrence of a predetermined motion of the body orthe sterilizing module, or a combination of the user gesture and theoccurrence of the predetermined motion of the body or the sterilizingmodule, wherein the second substrate includes an inclined region that isconfigured to facilitate extraction of the sterilization light generatedin the active layer, and wherein the sterilization module emits thesterilization light, or stops emission of the sterilization lightdepending on a sensing result of the sensor.
 11. The sterilizationmodule of claim 10, wherein the sterilization module further comprises atimer that generates a sterilization stop signal after a predeterminedtime passes since a start of sterilization.
 12. The sterilization moduleof claim 10, wherein the sterilization module further comprises an inputunit that allows a user to set sterilization time.
 13. The sterilizationmodule of claim 10, wherein at least a region of the active layer andthe second conductivity type semiconductor layer has an inclined regionto improve extraction of the sterilization light generated in the activelayer.
 14. The sterilization module of claim 10, wherein the windowmember includes a fluorine-based polymer.
 15. The sterilization moduleof claim 10, wherein the outlet has a path through which thesterilization light emitted from the light emitting structure isdischarged outside the sterilization module.
 16. A sterilization module,comprising: a housing having an outlet through which sterilization lightpasses; a first substrate disposed in the housing; a light emittingstructure disposed on the first substrate to emit the sterilizationlight and including a second substrate, a first conductivity typesemiconductor layer disposed on the second substrate, an active layerdisposed on the first conductivity type semiconductor layer; and asecond conductivity type semiconductor layer disposed on the activelayer; a power storage member configured to supply electric power to thelight emitting structure; and a window member disposed on the firstsubstrate and configured to protect the light emitting structure from anexterior of the sterilizing module; and wherein the second substrateincludes an inclined region that is configured to facilitate extractionof the sterilization light generated in the active layer.
 17. Thesterilization module of claim 16, wherein the light emitting structureis configured to be turned on to provide the sterilizing light inresponse to the supply of the electric power from the power storagemember and be turned off in response to a stop of the supply of theelectric power.
 18. The sterilization module of claim 17, wherein thepower storage member is configured to supply the electric power based ona sensing result of a sensor operable to sense at least one of a usergesture, an occurrence of a predetermined motion of the sterilizingmodule, or a combination of the user gesture and the occurrence of thepredetermined motion of the sterilizing module.
 19. The sterilizationmodule of claim 17, wherein the sterilization module is disposed in aportable water bottle and the light emitting structure is configured tobe turned on in response to satisfying a predetermined condition that isdetected by a sensor.
 20. The sterilization module of claim 19, whereinthe sensor is configured to detect at least one of a user gesture or anoccurrence of a predetermined motion of the portable water bottle.